Laparoscopy utilizes a videoscope or
camera to perform surgical procedures within the abdomen without large and often painful
incisions. To start these procedures, a series of small ¼ to ½ inch incisions are made
to accommodate the camera and a number of long, thin instruments that move and handle the
intraabdominal organs. All this appears on the television screen while the patient sleeps
comfortably under general anesthesia.A number of complicated operations can be
performed with laparoscopic techniques but with much less pain and shorter recovery
periods than with conventional methods.
Today, many surgeons perform operations on the gallbladder using the videoscope. A
number of specially trained and enthusiastic surgeons perform advanced procedures with the
laparoscope. These include the removal of the appendix, repair of groin or inguinal
hernias, repair of hiatal hernias, and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease
(GERD). Treatment of diseases of the colon, small intestines, adrenal glands and spleen
can also be accomplished by the experienced laparoscopic surgeon.
Just as the arthroscope has revolutionized orthopedic and sports medicine, the
laparoscope has helped the surgeon at Advanced Surgical make great strides in improving
the lives of hundreds of patients.
